Lewes FC have issued a direct appeal to their owners, supporters and wider footballing community to financially support the club through the off-season.
Elected director Joe Short said: “We couldn’t have made it through the season without the backing of our fans, community owners and sponsors.
“We are on the brink of something really special. We have a women’s team that we believe can compete for promotion to the Women’s Championship within a few seasons. We have a new men’s manager in Bradley Pritchard who brings passion and intelligence to the role, and is ready to build on our solid foundations built last season.
“We just need to get to the summer. Non-league men’s clubs and independent women’s clubs have their income streams turned off during the off-season. We don’t have a rich Premier League men’s team to cover our costs. Like many clubs we have faced cash flow fluctuations this season but have successfully managed it.
“Now we’re at a stage where we need money to get us through the summer, prepare the Dripping Pan and its facilities for a new season, and give our teams the best chance possible of competing.”
Campaign Launched
Lewes have launched a campaign to help the club through to August, asking fans and businesses to donate, buy lifetime ownerships, purchase merchandise and become sponsors.
Currently, fans can become owners for £50 and earn voting rights for key decisions at the club. With owners in more than 40 countries around the world, it’s a large community.
“Our club runs on four full-time members of staff and a huge number of amazing volunteers,” adds Joe Short.
“This community, coupled with sponsors like impact-focused Xero and Who Gives A Crap, enable us to flourish and deliver impact around gender-based issues, community, and sustainability.
“However, we’re always seeking more sponsors and have developed a range of opportunities for individuals and businesses to come on board. We only work with like-minded sponsors, who in effect become our partners.”